Bougainvillea Seem To Be Getting Too Much Water

In the Garden - Q&A

August 28, 2002

Question: My bougainvillea are in 24-inch pots in full sun outside. At first, they looked really good but now the leaves are drooping. I keep watering, but the plants still look droopy. What am I doing wrong?

B.M., New Smyrna Beach

Answer: Do the containers have drainage holes? If not, the plants may be too wet. If there are no holes, you may need to put some in the containers or put a deep layer of rocks in the bottom to catch the extra water. If there are drainage holes, does the soil drain quickly and is it light to the touch? Sometimes the potting soil is too heavy and stays wet for a long time. Adding finely ground bark, perlite or vermiculture helps to lighten the soil. Remember, bougainvillea are very drought-loving plants.

Q: My mother-in-law is having a problem with snails. She tried various products but doesn't seem to have much success. Any suggestions?

S.B., DeBary

A: Because snails are related to mollusks, you need to use a product containing metaldehyde, usually sold as a slug or snail bait. Follow label directions carefully. You'll probably have to use the product frequently to make any progress. Other tricks to try would be a saucer of beer (for them to drown in), diatomaceous earth, copper strips around plants or a board laid on the ground (for them to hide under) so you can dispatch them as you find them each morning.

Q: I have a large cedar tree that has ferns growing on the branches. I've been told this is because of a fungus. Is this true?

S.D., Orange City

A: Rather than ferns, what you are seeing are probably tillandsias, members of the bromeliad family. These are truly "air plants," which do not harm the tree. They simply use it as a perch. Tillandsias get their water and nutrients from rain and falling leaves. If they seem to be spreading rapidly, your tree canopy may be thinning for some other reason. Proper water, mulch and good nutrition are important for the tree.